EU challenges Austrian heavy lorry ban

The European Commission has started emergency infringement proceedings against Austria over a ban on lorries using a motorway approaching the Alpine Brenner pass, excepting local traffic. The move is unusual because the ban is not due to take effect until 1 August (EED 13/05/03). Also, Austria has been given just a week to respond. The restrictions are intended to safeguard air quality, but the Commission said it doubted their effectiveness or proportionality, arguing that they breach the principle of freedom to provide services and will hamper free movement of goods. See press release.

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